Also, updates on the Muskoka scene: High School Playoffs, Muskoka United FC, Huntsville SC, and Bracebridge SC

A plethora of noteworthy events transpired this week on and off the pitch in the beautiful game.

Since there were so many items to share and comment on in this space, I’ve decided to do a quick hit list of what happened and my thoughts on it.

Further down the column, you’ll find the updates on the local Muskoka soccer scene.

Lawsuit Against FIFA. This week, the European Leagues, players’ union FIFPRO Europe and LaLiga filed a joint complaint to EU antitrust regulators this week against FIFA’s international match calendar. The lawsuit is specifically targeting the unnecessary abundance of matches as FIFA attempts to launch a 32-team Club World Cup next year. My thoughts: It’s about time! This has been in the works for a while and FIFA really needs to be humbled. There legit is too much football/soccer in a calendar year relative to the health of the players.

Fede’s Emotional Letter. This week Federico Bernadeschi, Toronto FC’s MVP this year, penned an open letter to the fans on his social media account that acknowledged TFC’s inability to make the playoffs, his commitment to the club and city, and thanking the supporters for their passion. My thoughts: It was sincere. It was honest. It likely means he’s here to fight and that means TFC needs to build a team around him during the off-season – afterall the club’s brass are calling this a “re-build.”

Goals Galore in Women’s UCL. The UEFA Women’s Champions League matches this week featured goals, goals, and even more goals. There were 38 goals scored in the eight matches (an average of 4.75 goals per game), highlighted by Barcelona’s 9-0 home win over Hammarby and AS Roma’s 6-1 away victory over Galatasaray. My thoughts: I have long been a proponent of the Women’s Champions League (and the women’s game in general) and who doesn’t love to see goals?

UEFA Nations League. This week some former players and officials noted that this event, much like the proposed 32-team Club World Cup, is another example of too much soccer being played without enough breaks. My thoughts: While I do enjoy watching some of the matches (particularly Italia’s 2-2 draw against Belgium and 4-1 thrashing of Israel), it is definitely another addition to the match calendar that doesn’t need to be there.

Canada’s 2-1 Win. The Canadian Men’s National team returned to home soil and won 2-1 over Panama on a late goal by Jonathan David. My thoughts: It was a good win on a cold night in Toronto. I hope this team keeps building and growing on their Copa America semi-final appearance heading into 2026.

Decision Day in MLS. Inter Miami going for the single season points record at home to hapless New England. DC United, Montreal, Philly, and Atlanta (I almost typed Atalanta) are vying for the two Wild Card spots in the East. Both LA teams have a shot at first in the West. There are also teams vying for positioning both conferences. There is are a lot of scenarios. My thoughts: This should be a fun day, and it kills me that TFC is already eliminated because it would have been more interesting if the results mattered in that regard.

Muskoka-Parry Sound High School Playoffs

The MPS playoffs are upon us with the winner earning the right to take part in the Georgian Bay Championships later this month.

Bracebridge will host the single day event on Tuesday, October 22.

The Huntsville Hoyas take on the Bracebridge Lakers and the Gravenhurst Gryphons face the Almaguin Highlanders in the semi-finals with the winners playing for the MPS title.

Muskoka United FC

The Muskoka United FC summer season and fall assessments are in the rear-view mirror. Up next is planning indoor training for most teams and planning the 2025 season.

However, not all teams are done playing competitive games. The U17/U16 Boys Team are set to play in the Provincial Indoor Soccer League (PISL) this fall and winter.

The PISL season kicks-off on October 19. Updates on the boys’ progress and results will be available weekly in this column.

Huntsville Soccer Club

Registration for the Adult Indoor Soccer programs is now open with games starting the week of November 4.

There are two options available at the moment: a more experienced players pick-up night on Mondays and an open skill level pick-up night on Wednesdays.

Both nights take place at Spruce Glen Public School with various times. Learn more at: www.huntsvillesoccer.ca or register at: https://huntsvillesoccer.sportngin.com/register/form/496057901

The proper indoor soccer league with distinct teams and standings will start play in January. Registration for that will be up as soon as a few more details are confirmed.

There is also an indoor training program for the Huntsville FC Women’s Team. Those interested in that can email the coordinator at womensleague@huntsvillesoccer.ca

The club is always looking for volunteers to fill a variety of roles – both big and small – and those interested in helping should email administrator@huntsvillesoccer.ca

Bracebridge Soccer Club

The Bracebridge Soccer Club’s impromptu adult co-ed fall pick-up program filled up quickly, but those who missed out can take solace that the winter league registration will be happening soon.

Registration for the club’s winter youth indoor program that begins in January will be available soon as well.

As well, Bracebridge is hosting their AGM on Monday, November 18th at 7 p.m. in the Bracebridge Sportsplex. The club is looking for some more board members and the following positions are open: sponsorship coordinator, social media coordinator, adult recreational coordinator, vice president of programs, and a U9 to U12 house league coordinator.

For more information on the club, visit: https://www.bracebridgesoccer.ca/

That’s all for this week! Ciao For Now Everyone!

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